Shepherd's Huts in North Wessex Downs AONB

Miles of rolling countryside await in the North Wessex Downs, but this AONB also has plenty of surprises up its sleeve. White chalk horses gaze down from the hillsides, ancient stone circles lie in the valleys, and lively market towns pepper the riverside. Explore the natural landscapes on foot, by bike, or on horseback; cruise the canals by boat or kayak; or escape to a tranquil campsite by the waterfront or in the forest. May through September is the most pleasant time for camping, but the weather can be temperamental even in summer, so pack for all-seasons.

97% (429)

Top-rated campgrounds

Miles of rolling countryside await in the North Wessex Downs, but this AONB also has plenty of surprises up its sleeve. White chalk horses gaze down from the hillsides, ancient stone circles lie in the valleys, and lively market towns pepper the riverside. Explore the natural landscapes on foot, by bike, or on horseback; cruise the canals by boat or kayak; or escape to a tranquil campsite by the waterfront or in the forest. May through September is the most pleasant time for camping, but the weather can be temperamental even in summer, so pack for all-seasons.

97% (429)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Little Fleece at Folly Farm

100%

(58)

1 unit · Glamping · Berkshire, South East England

A cosy and luxurious shepherds hut for two on a beautiful farm in the Wessex Downs.

2. Hendred Farm Huts

99%

(37)

4 units · Glamping · Abingdon, England

Shepherd’s huts in pretty parkland in the Oxfordshire countryside

3. Walltree House Camping

98%

(29)

34 units · Tents, Glamping · Northamptonshire, East Midlands

Simple camping in the grounds of a farmhouse, with thrill-seeking activities in arm's reach

4. Rest and Retreats Shepherd Huts

2 units · Glamping · England

Our shepherd huts are designed with indulgent luxury in mind, you will sleep well, in a king size bed with high thread count cotton sheets covering goose down filled pillows and duvet. “Freddie" hut will enhance your connection with the great outdoors with a gorgeous skylight above your bed. By day a cascade of natural light, by evening framing a view of the stars. For those wintery nights snuggle in and de-stress in front of the wood burning stove with a brew or glass of Prosecco on us. When you choose to rise listen to your Roberts radio in your fully equipped kitchen with premium appliances, enjoying breakfast on us with fresh milk, orange juice, cereals & a small loaf of local sourdough, fresh jams and of course a coffee made from your Nespresso. Located down an old Roman road in an ancient village you will have far reaching views of the Oxfordshire countryside, a few minutes stroll away a fantastic community owned pub awaits, local pint or well earned GnT? Let us host you here at Restandretreats for that romantic break or just to escape, unwind and clear your mind. Our location has the best of both worlds, your shepherd hut is located in an ancient Roman village in the Oxfordshire countryside, yet just 5 miles from the centre of Oxford with all its history and university colleges. If you choose you can compliment your stay with an indulgent shopping trip to Bicester Village premium outlet (11m) or Blenheim Palace (8m) with all its history and events on offer. Jeremy Clarksons Diddly squat farm (21m) and his new public house have also become popular with our guests. If walking or running is more your focus then why not explore the beautiful RSPB Otmoor bird reserve, a haven for wildlife with many visitor trials to enjoy, it’s merely a short walk away. Whatever your visit has in store our cosy pub, The Abingdon Arms, is waiting only 100metres walk away, offering fine ales and fine dining or perhaps just a take away pizza. We do welcome our furry 🐕 friends, but NOT in our “Freddy” hut, please check out our other listing for our dog friendly “Edie” shepherd hut listed on Airbnb. We can offer single nights Sunday through Thursday in the quieter months - please message us here or reach out to us at RestandRetreats and we will always see what we can do

5. Farrs Meadow

96%

(141)

31 units · Tents, Glamping · Dorset, South West England

A charming Dorset campsite overlooking the Stour Valley and a short walk from both the river and the market town of Wimborne Minster

6. Huckleberry Farm

81%

(16)

6 units · Tents, Glamping · Oxfordshire, South East England

A back-to-basics campsite that’s well placed for visiting Oxford and the Cotswolds

7. Sindles Farm Glamping and Camping

100%

(14)

9 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Emsworth, West Sussex

We are a small, friendly site on a working farm in the beautiful South Downs National Park. We have shepherds huts, bell tents and a land pod in an old sheep paddock, all with private fire pits. We’re surrounded by footpaths and bridleways that can be explored all day, and 10 minutes drive from the sea. We also have a small grass-pitch campsite that opens in the summer for tents and camper vans.

8. Abbey Home Farm

94%

(218)

21 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Cirencester, Gloucestershire, South West England

Eco-camping for real. Cooking on an open fire. Unspoilt natural beauty.

9. Fallow Coombe Glamping

94%

(9)

1 unit · Glamping · England

Beautiful, tranquil site, with one Shepherds Hut and area for sole use. Nestled in the valley in Rake Hampshire with stunning views throughout the year. Surrounded by Ancient woodland walks. 5 min drive or 1 hour walk to our family farm, Durleigh Marsh Farm, where you will find a Tea Room, Pick Your Own fruit and veg. Farm Shop and Barn Emporium with lots of wonderful boutiques to look at. Fallow can accommodate 2 Adults and up to 2 children. The extra beds are for children only. Come and enjoy the beauty and peace and immerse yourself in nature. Due to the tucked away location you will receive detailed directions after booking.

10. Featherbed

100%

(3)

4 units · Glamping · Oxfordshire, South East England

Adults-only glamping with private facilities on a Northamptonshire farm

11. Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views

100%

(32)

1 unit · Glamping · Rake, England

The Shepherd's Hut at Coombe Farm Glamping is only an hour or so from London and within easy reach of Goodwood, Cowdray and the south coast; yet once you're here, you'll feel as if you've stepped through the back of the wardrobe and into the ancient woodland that surrounds, unimpeded views towards the South Downs and barely another soul around. The hut stands alone in the field, so you will exclusively enjoy the tranquility the land has to offer. The Hut is equipped with fresh linen and towels, made extra cozy and warm with a beautiful flame and clean burning bio ethanol burner which creates a relaxed ambience, providing amazing heat for the chillier season stay. The wash area is compact with everything you will need for alfresco catering and dining, including a great camp compressor fridge. We also provide equipment to cook on the ample fire pit for an authentic camp experience. We have a revitalizing, hot and spacious shower, all run from our off grid system. We also provide luxury toiletries. Our loo is composting, extremely clean and freshly set up for every new guest and in keeping with our off grid, low-fi ethos. Our family farm, Durleigh Marsh Farm is in Rogate, 5 min drive from Rake or about an hours walk through the woodland south from the hut. The popular Tea room offers a great breakfast and lunch menu. Booking is advisable. Between the nearby traditional market towns of Petersfield and Haslemere you will discover a diverse choice of places to shop, dine and drink. The site is encompassed by beautiful walks and trails taking you further into the heart of the South Downs.

12. Cholderton Estate, near Stonehenge

90%

(20)

3 units · Glamping · Salisbury, England

Quirky accommodation on a 2,500-acre nature-filled estate, just 15 minutes from Stonehenge

13. Lockhurst Hatch Farm Glamping

100%

(8)

1 unit · Glamping · Surrey, South East England

A single, traditional shepherd's hut with countryside views, and a cosy feel

14. Marshwood Farm Camping

100%

(53)

15 units · Tents, Glamping · Wiltshire, South West England

Quiet, family-friendly camping and glamping on a farm in rolling Wiltshire countryside

15. Quaint Farm in a National Park

100%

(26)

2 units · Glamping · Liphook, England

Our 17 acre Farm is set deep within the beautiful South Downs National Park on the outskirts of the quiet village of Milland (near Liphook) in rural West Sussex (close to its border with Hampshire and Surrey). We have direct access to an excellent bridleway and footpath network through peaceful open countryside and quiet lanes as well as being on the Serpent Tail and close to the South Downs Way. Our Glamping Pod and Shepherd's Hut are available to book all year round. We also offer stabling if you would like to take your horses or ponies on holiday with you! Milland village (0.8 miles) has the Rising Sun pub, serving great food and drink, and Milland Stores, which stocks all your essential fresh and local produce as well as having a small cafe.

16. Oakhill Ponds

96%

(13)

8 units · Glamping · Somerset, South West England

A uniquely peaceful Somerset glamping site set around two ponds in its own beautiful wildlife garden.

17. Rolling Fields Glamping

100%

(35)

6 units · Glamping · Oxfordshire, South East England

Luxury farm glamping with epic views, a 10-minute walk from the Thames

18. Shirehill Farm

100%

(5)

2 units · Glamping · Chippenham, England

Newly installed Shepherds huts in the Cotswolds. Outside kitchen with woodburning stove /oven, gas rings, Firepit, indoor and outdoor seating. Newly installed compost toilets and shower cubicle. Electric sockets and lighting in the huts. Both have double beds. A tipi allows flexible sleeping for families and larger groups. The farm is a wildlife lover’s paradise with woodland walks and bird spotting opportunities. Fancy a cooked breakfast? Buy farm-fresh eggs for a morning fry-up, and add seasonal vegetables to your evening barbecue from the farm or by picking up supplies in Marshfield (five minutes’ drive) – although you’re also spoilt for choice of welcoming pubs serving good food within a 5 minute drive.

19. Romantic Country Glamping

91%

(11)

2 units · Glamping · Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire, South West England

A pair of self-contained glamping getaways in Wiltshire

20. Fernwood Glamping (New Forest)

100%

(21)

2 units · Glamping · New Forest, England

Secluded, peaceful glamping on the edge of the New Forest

Camper favorites in and near North Wessex Downs AONB

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Lockhurst Hatch Farm Glamping

100%

(8)

1 unit · Glamping · Surrey, South East England

A single, traditional shepherd's hut with countryside views, and a cosy feel

Marshwood Farm Camping

100%

(53)

15 units · Tents, Glamping · Wiltshire, South West England

Quiet, family-friendly camping and glamping on a farm in rolling Wiltshire countryside

Quaint Farm in a National Park

100%

(26)

2 units · Glamping · Liphook, England

Our 17 acre Farm is set deep within the beautiful South Downs National Park on the outskirts of the quiet village of Milland (near Liphook) in rural West Sussex (close to its border with Hampshire and Surrey). We have direct access to an excellent bridleway and footpath network through peaceful open countryside and quiet lanes as well as being on the Serpent Tail and close to the South Downs Way. Our Glamping Pod and Shepherd's Hut are available to book all year round. We also offer stabling if you would like to take your horses or ponies on holiday with you! Milland village (0.8 miles) has the Rising Sun pub, serving great food and drink, and Milland Stores, which stocks all your essential fresh and local produce as well as having a small cafe.

Oakhill Ponds

96%

(13)

8 units · Glamping · Somerset, South West England

A uniquely peaceful Somerset glamping site set around two ponds in its own beautiful wildlife garden.

Rolling Fields Glamping

100%

(35)

6 units · Glamping · Oxfordshire, South East England

Luxury farm glamping with epic views, a 10-minute walk from the Thames

Shirehill Farm

100%

(5)

2 units · Glamping · Chippenham, England

Newly installed Shepherds huts in the Cotswolds. Outside kitchen with woodburning stove /oven, gas rings, Firepit, indoor and outdoor seating. Newly installed compost toilets and shower cubicle. Electric sockets and lighting in the huts. Both have double beds. A tipi allows flexible sleeping for families and larger groups. The farm is a wildlife lover’s paradise with woodland walks and bird spotting opportunities. Fancy a cooked breakfast? Buy farm-fresh eggs for a morning fry-up, and add seasonal vegetables to your evening barbecue from the farm or by picking up supplies in Marshfield (five minutes’ drive) – although you’re also spoilt for choice of welcoming pubs serving good food within a 5 minute drive.

Romantic Country Glamping

91%

(11)

2 units · Glamping · Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire, South West England

A pair of self-contained glamping getaways in Wiltshire

Fernwood Glamping (New Forest)

100%

(21)

2 units · Glamping · New Forest, England

Secluded, peaceful glamping on the edge of the New Forest

Stories from the community

K

Kimberley

October 2025

With pets

2 nights at Hendred Farm Huts

I had a lovely stay, Despite visiting in October, the Shepard’s hut kept me nice and warm. The hut was as pictured and described. There were lots of lovely nearby walks. The Shepard’s hut was very accommodating for the dogs too who enjoyed their stay and use of the field. Thank you.

R

Rachel

October 2025

2 nights at Little Fleece at Folly Farm

We had the most wonderful stay at this little countryside getaway! From the moment we arrived, Jane was absolutely incredible - so kind, welcoming, and full of helpful information about the lodge and surrounding area. She’d thought of everything, leaving clear instructions for how everything worked, which made our stay effortless and relaxing. The thoughtful touches really made it special - from the freshly baked bread to the delicious shortbread cookies, everything felt homely and made with love. The setting itself was pure peace and quiet, surrounded by nothing but cows, trees, and the soft sounds of nature. It was the perfect place to switch off, breathe deeply, and just enjoy the calm of the countryside. We honestly didn’t want to leave - a hidden gem that we’d return to in a heartbeat!

R

Richard

October 2025

2 nights at Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views

Off grid, basic and rustic shepards hut. Very relaxing, and comfortable, Excellent communication from Alice on finding the feild and lots of good information about the local area. Really enjoyed my time here.

E

Eren

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Little Fleece at Folly Farm

My girlfriend and I had a lovely stay at Little Fleece to celebrate her birthday. The hot tub was lovely and we made some great pizzas using the pizza oven. Jane and Dave were brilliant hosts - it was lovey to meet you both! The homemade bread and biscuits were a lovely touch. Thank you!

F

Fatima

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Huckleberry Farm

Our getaway to Huckleberry Farm was a gift for my husband’s birthday. Everything from start to finish was really organised and fun. Met all of our expectations. Charlotte and everyone on site were really helpful and sweet. We enjoyed horse riding and seeing the guinea pigs. We stayed in the shepherd’s hut, a clean and well maintained space that felt like home for the night. All in all a wonderful experience. Completely recommend! Thank you Charlotte and everyone at Huckleberry Farm for having Ali & I. Looking back to visiting again sometime soon!

A

Anne

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hendred Farm Huts

Lovely break . The little touches made it very special from the tea coffee and milk to a birthday gift for my husband. Very thoughtful

T

Tim

September 2025

1 night at Little Fleece at Folly Farm

What a beautiful spot. Lovely little cabin. Everything worked as expected. Hot tub was AMAZING! Pizza oven worked a treat. Loads of wood supplied. Jane and Dave were so kind and accommodating. Just wish we had more time there!

A

Amber

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hendred Farm Huts

Had the most lovely stay, would definitely recommend. The cabin was well thought out, cozy and beautiful. Thank you ❤️

Set in beautiful surroundings it was easy to feel a great sense of peace here.

J

Joanna

September 2025

With pets

2 nights at Hendred Farm Huts

This was our second stay and this time we stayed in Agatha. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and everything was perfect. Hendred huts really offer a peaceful relaxing break away from everything!

A view of the hut from one of the surrounding footpaths.

E

Emily

September 2025

1 night at Quaint Farm in a National Park

Matt met us on arrival and helped carry our bags to the The Shepherds Hut which is well fitted out , nicely decorated , lovely and clean, and well equipped. Nice hot shower and towel rail. Electric fire and also a log burner should you need it for the cold weather,The bed was so so comfy and the oat biscuits and eggs were delicious !! All windows had lovely views. Ivan & Sylvia S xxx

I

Imogen

August 2025

1 night at Little Fleece at Folly Farm

The shepherds hut was amazing, Jane’s attention detail was fantastic, she had baked bread and shortbread. The hut is in amazing condition and surrounded by beautiful scenery. Highly recommend!

A

Annie

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Shirehill Farm

We had a really lovely stay in the Shepherds Hut, the location is so beautiful and peaceful. Lots of stunning walks nearby. Kitchen had all the cooking facilities you need and outdoor shower and toilets were very well maintained. Alison was very welcoming and extremely helpful. Thanks!

D

Dave

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Abbey Home Farm

Lovely shepherd huts in a beautiful location. Plenty to explore or relax and take in nature. They were great hosts with a great farm shop

B

Barnaby

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Quaint Farm in a National Park

Really lovely stay, absolutely nothing bad to say. Highly recommend!

M

August 2025

2 nights at Little Fleece at Folly Farm

My partner and I had an incredible stay at Little Fleece. It had everything we needed, set in such a peaceful and relaxing environment 🙌🏽

M

Michele

August 2025

With kids

3 nights at Abbey Home Farm

We had the best time in the Shepherd's Huts - it's such a magical place to stay, with beautiful views over the fields and even it's own little woodland walk. We spent two nights just us and our son, then my cousins pitched a tent on the third night. It was so peaceful to be surrounded by nature and have the place to ourselves. The huts were beautiful and cosy and the beds were comfy too. There was everything we needed to have a camping experience that felt both wild yet easy and with all that we needed. Thanks Abbey Home Farm!

C

Cameron

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Quaint Farm in a National Park

We loved our stay at the hut - it was perfect! Being surrounded by the beautiful scenery at the back of the farm and waking up to the incredibly friendly sheep and horses was so nice. The hut itself is really cozy, lovingly decorated and has everything you need in it. We would love come and stay again!

B

Beth

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Little Fleece at Folly Farm

Amazing stay, a great lil escape out of London. Such a relaxing space, has everything you need and also such wonderful hosts!

B

Barb

August 2025

2 nights at Quaint Farm in a National Park

Super nice shepherd’s hut! Loved the animals nearby too.

M

Masarat

August 2025

3 nights at Hendred Farm Huts

I recently stayed at Dorothy and it was everything I didn’t know I needed. From the moment I arrived, I felt wrapped in peace; the kind that quiets the mind and nourishes the soul. The setting is serene, tucked away from the buzz of everyday life, and offers a rare kind of stillness that invites you to truly breathe. The hut itself is beautifully designed; cosy, clean, and full of thoughtful touches that make you feel instantly at home. Waking up to birdsong, sipping tea with views of open fields, and falling asleep under a sky full of stars, it was a gentle reset for my mind, body, and spirit. Whether you're looking to reflect, recharge, or simply disconnect from the noise, Dorothy is the perfect retreat. I left feeling lighter, clearer, and deeply grateful. I wholeheartedly recommend this stay to anyone craving tranquillity, simplicity, and a touch of countryside magic. You won’t regret it. :-)

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Shepherd's Huts in North Wessex Downs AONB guide

Where to go

Wiltshire

Most of the North Wessex Downs lie within Wiltshire, where you can hike, cycle, or horseback ride across open chalklands. Visit the UNESCO-listed Avebury stone circle, explore the Great West Way heritage trail, or marvel at the Wiltshire White Horses, giant chalk drawings etched onto the hillsides. To the south, the world-famous Stonehenge is an easy detour, and there are more hiking opportunities in the surrounding Salisbury Plains.

Hampshire

Downton Abbey fans won’t want to miss a visit to Highclere Castle—the real-life Downton Abbey—in the southeast corner of North Wessex Downs. Explore the surrounding farmlands by bike, stop off at pretty Hampshire villages, or stay at quiet country campgrounds. To the south, the cathedral city of Winchester and the New Forest National Park are less than an hour’s drive.

Berkshire

Newbury and Reading are the gateways to the eastern downlands, where the hillside towns are dotted with thatched-roof cottages and traditional pubs. Take a leisurely boat cruise along the Kent & Avon Canal, stop to browse the markets in Hungerford, or hike the 20-mile Lambourn Valley Way.

Oxfordshire

The northern borders of the North Wessex Downs spill over into Oxfordshire, where highlights include the market town of Wantage and the Uffington White Horse. Continue north to visit the university city of Oxford or take a road trip along the winding country lanes of the Cotswolds, another AONB.